Canadian police were forced to act quickly to preserve thousands of childhood memories after an unwanted appearance at the annual Santa Claus parade in Kingston, Ontario.

An intoxicated 24-year-old man appeared amidst the floats and festive paraphernalia during the event on November 17. While walking up Kingston's crowded main street, he began screaming to the crowds that 'Santa isn't real' along with a string of obscenities.

The unidentified Scrooge, described as having hair gelled to look like 'devil horns protruding from his head', was quickly intercepted by police.

The dignity of Santa Claus remained intact, despite the best efforts of a drunk man with devil horns

Kingston Police tweeted: 'Arrested an intoxicated Grinch for trying to yell at kids that Santa's not real! So misinformed. His heart must be many sizes too small!'

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There is no law
against ruining Christmas, but the man was booked on charges of public
intoxication, disturbing the peace, and breach of probation.

Media relations officer Constable Steve Koopman discussed the arrest with the National Post, explaining that what the man said was less of a problem than his aggressive manner towards those attending the parade.

Kingston Police tweeted about the unwelcome presence at the parade

'He was disturbing everyone there on
the thoroughfare, he was disturbing the families, obviously disturbing
the children,' he said.

'We felt it very necessary to take him off the street and think the charges were warranted.'

Mr Koopman added that many members of the police had been personally offended by the spoilsport behaviour, saying, 'Most of us have children ourselves.'

The man spent Saturday night in
prison while he sobered up. He was released on bail the next day, on the
condition that he abstain from alcohol.